Gregory XIII (Ugo Buoncompagni, 1502-1585), Pope 1572 [obverse]
![Gregory XIII (Ugo Buoncompagni, 1502-1585), Pope 1572 [obverse] by Bartolomeo Argenterio](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.artheonmuseum.org%2Fnga%2Fthumb%2Fgregory-xiii-ugo-buoncompagni-1502-1585-pope-1572-nga-108143.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 5.82 cm (2 5/16 in.) gross weight: 55.53 gr (0.122 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin
Accession Number
1998.108.19.a
Art Historical Context
Behold the obverse of this exquisite bronze medal, crafted in 1582 by Bartolome Argenterio, a Italian medallist active in Renaissance Rome. Measuring just 5.82 cm in diameter and weighing 55.53, this intimate sculpture captures Pope Gregory XIII (Ugo Buoncomp, 1502–1585), who ascended to the papacy in 1572. The portrait likely features the pontiff in profile, a hallmark of classical revival in medallic art, evoking ancient Roman coins while celebrating contemporary papal authority. Dated to the pivotal year of 1582, the medal coincides with Gregory XIII's most enduring legacy: the introductio...